Cognitive dissonance
Cognitive Dissonance
Cognitive dissonance (/kɒɡˈnɪtɪv ˈdɪsənəns/) is a psychological theory proposed by Leon Festinger in 1957. The term is derived from the Latin words 'cognitio' (knowledge) and 'dissonantia' (discord).
Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or stress experienced by an individual who holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or perceptions at the same time. This discomfort often leads to an alteration in one's beliefs or behaviors to reduce the inconsistency and restore balance.
History
The concept of cognitive dissonance was first introduced by social psychologist Leon Festinger in his book, "A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance" published in 1957. Festinger's theory has since been expanded upon and refined by numerous psychologists and researchers.
Theory
According to Festinger's theory, humans strive for internal consistency. When inconsistency (dissonance) is experienced, individuals tend to become psychologically uncomfortable and are motivated to attempt to reduce this dissonance, as well as actively avoiding situations and information which are likely to increase it.
Related Terms
- Confirmation bias: The tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs or hypotheses.
- Belief perseverance: The persistence of one's initial conceptions, such as when the basis for one's belief is discredited but an explanation of why the belief might be true, survives.
- Cognitive bias: Systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment, whereby inferences about other people and situations may be drawn in an illogical fashion.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cognitive dissonance
- Wikipedia's article - Cognitive dissonance
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